168 THE DISEASES OF THE HORSE. 



BALDNESS (ALOPECIA), 



Is usually caused by disturbed nutrition and wasting 

 changes of the skin and hair-cells. Parasites may or may 

 not be present. It usually occurs suddenly, and is often 

 extensive, with little or no irritation, itching, exudation, 

 or swelling. The mane and tail are exempt. The bare 

 skin is smooth, soft, and unctious, with a very slight cov- 

 ering of scales. The disease has a tendency to heal itself. 



Remedy. — Oleaginous diet. General tonics, such as 

 arsenic, iron, with gentian or mix vomica. Stimulate skin 

 with ammonia liniment ; cantharides tincture 1 part, soap 

 or camphor liniment 8 parts; or castor oil. Shave, and 

 rub in vaselin daily, dressing occasionally with the above 

 stimulants. For doses, see pages 13 to 29. 



LOUSINESS (PEDICULI, PHTHIRIASIS), 



Is aided by damp dirt, barley straw, poverty, and pri- 

 vation. The horse suffers from three kinds of lice — two 

 peculiar to itself, one peculiar to domestic fowl. The 

 lice sometimes create such havoc that the hair falls off 

 in places. 



Remedy.— Wash with soft soap and warm water and 

 rub in solution of stavesacre or tobacco, 1 part solution 

 to 40 of water. Oil of tar 1 part, oil of rape or other 

 mild oil 4 parts. Sulphur iodide ointment. Mercuric 

 nitrate ointment. Use cautiously. Creosote 1 part, glyc- 

 erine or alcohol 2 parts, water 40 parts. Clip long, coarse 

 hair; isolate infected horses and cleanse premises. 



MANGE, SCAB (SCABIES), 



Is caused by several species of ' acari ' (mange mites) 

 burrowing under the skin. It is peculiar to unhealthy, 

 unclean, coarse-bred, hairy-limbed horses and to cold 

 weather. It is very contagious and requires isolation and 

 careful treatment. A mangy horse will rub itself sore. 



Symptoms. — The discovery of the insect, and the pre- 



